Frugal. By Nature.

Free Apps To Help You Save (and Make) Money

Saving money on groceries can be as easy as reaching for your smartphone with these free apps available on iOS and Android smartphones.

Ibotta

Ibotta is an easy to use app that allows you to earn cash back on items you purchase at more than three dozen retailers. You simple grab the offers that interest you, buy them in the store, and then shoot a picture of your receipt with your smartphone.

They’ve recently expanded your ability to save money by offering bonuses and special store-specific deals. You can also earn money for completing special offers or referring friends.

Your cash back is credited to an account which you can have sent to you via Paypal.

Jingit

Jingit. allows you to earn real cash instantly for doing things like watching ads online, checking out select products at local stores, and answering brief surveys. You can earn up to $10 a week using Jingit, or up to $15 a week if you refer your friends. Payment comes in the form of a Jingit Visa debit card, which can be used at any merchant that accepts Visa.

Jingit also recently added new ways to earn cash. Similar to iBotta, you can now earn cash back by purchasing select items and scanning your receipt with your smartphone’s camera.

Cartwheel

Cartwheelis the new shopping app from Target and I’m a definite fan. Simply click offers you like to add them to the Cartwheel app. Then show the QR code from the app to the cashier and you’ll get discounts. The best part is that Cartwheel can be combined with Target coupons and manufacturer coupons for even greater savings. I also like the social factor involved in this app. I can see what deals my friends are getting with just a push of a button.

Note: If you don’t have a smartphone, you can still use Cartwheel on your computer. You just need to print the special barcode for the Target cashier to scan.

Walgreens

The Walgreens app will have you saving on more than just medications. Shop the sales flyer, see what store coupons are available, check your Walgreen’s Balance Rewards and turn your fitness activity into discounts at Walgreens.

ShopKick

ShopKick is a shopping rewards app that allows you to earn points called “kicks” just for checking in at your favorite stores with the ShopKick app. If you link your Visa or Mastercard to the app, you’ll even be able to earn “kicks” for purchases you make at those stores. The “kicks” can be exchanged for all kinds of rewards including gift cards and donations to your favorite charities.

Cardstar

Cardstar. If you’re a savvy shopper, you’ve probably accumulated a wallet-full of store loyalty cards. Lighten up your wallet and keep on saving money when you use the Cardstar app. Simply load all of your store loyalty cards into the app. Then show your app to the cashier at the store so that you can reap the rewards of your loyalty.

Be sure to also look for free apps for your favorite stores. For example, my local grocery stores have apps that give you access to coupons you won’t find elsewhere. If you regularly shop at the same stores, it’s worth it to check for money-saving apps.